Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's also packed with flavor and nutrition? Look no further! This crock pot elk chili recipe is the perfect solution for busy individuals and families alike. It's a hearty, healthy meal that requires minimal hands-on time, letting your slow cooker do the magic while you relax. This recipe is perfect for showcasing the rich, gamey flavor of elk, making it a truly satisfying and delicious dish. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs elk meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Sear the Elk (Optional but Recommended): Before adding the elk to your slow cooker, it's highly recommended to sear the cubes in a hot skillet with a little oil for a few minutes per side. This helps to brown the meat and develop a deeper, richer flavor in your chili.
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Combine Ingredients: Place the seared (or unseared) elk, onion, garlic, and bell peppers in your slow cooker.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the elk is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Elk Chili:
- Don't overcook the elk: Overcooked elk can become tough. The slow cooker does a great job of tenderizing the meat, so aim for tender but not falling-apart elk.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. If you prefer a milder chili, omit it altogether.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or corn, to your chili.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It's one of those recipes that improves with time.
Variations:
- Beef Chili Adaptation: Substitute ground beef or stew beef for the elk. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as beef cooks faster.
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the elk and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or other beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: High in protein due to the elk and beans.
- Fiber: Excellent source of fiber from the beans and vegetables.
This crock pot elk chili recipe is a fantastic option for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes made with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful chili!